Ballon d’Or 2024: Fans back Jude Bellingham for top prize after masterclass in El Clasico

Jude Bellingham appears to have significantly boosted his chances in the race for the 2024 Ballon d'Or award with yet another stellar performance.

The Englishman once again proved to be the match-winner for Real Madrid in a thrilling El Clasico showdown against Barcelona on Sunday, April 20.

Despite Barca taking the lead twice at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, Bellingham helped Los Blancos claw their way back into the game, ultimately sealing the victory with a stoppage-time goal.

His crucial goal against the defending La Liga champions marks the second time this season that the 20-year-old has single-handedly secured a win in El Clasico.

It extends Real's lead to 11 points with just six games remaining in La Liga, Eurosport reports.

According to Transfermarkt, in his debut season with Madrid, the former Borussia Dortmund captain has been in exceptional form, contributing 31 goals (21 goals and 10 assists) in 36 appearances across all competitions.

With his side leading the race for the Spanish top flight title and in contention for a record-extending 15th Champions League crown, Bellingham's outstanding performances further strengthen his candidature for this year's Ballon d'Or prize.

His performances throughout the campaign, particularly in big games, as evidenced in the second instalment of El Clasico, makes him one of the top candidates to dethrone Lionel Messi of his gong, as reported by Sports Brief.

Fans seem to agree with that sentiment, as seen on social media:

@ViniEAFC claimed: "You are winning Ballon D'Or bro"

Another user, @WaruiJohn2, conferred on the Englishman: "England is winning the Euros, so Jude Bellingham will win the La Liga title, UCL and the Euros, incoming Balon d'Or winner 2024."

@Danizeh, on the other hand, was bold with his declaration: "BALON D'OR WINNER."

@_Kwabena_Kodua added: "Jude Bellingham is winning the Ballon d'Or."

@stareagle77_, who appears to be an avid Bellingham fan, wrote: "Give him the Ballon d’Or."